Bell-dancers ring in spring

Dancers known as Joaldunak on their way to a neighbouring village during carnival celebrations in Ituren, northern Spain, on Monday. The bell-carrying dancers from Zubieta and neighbouring Ituren visit each other's villages and perform a ritual dance
PHOTO: REUTERS

Dancers known as Joaldunak on their way to a neighbouring village during carnival celebrations in Ituren, northern Spain, on Monday.

The bell-carrying dancers from Zubieta and neighbouring Ituren visit each other's villages and perform a ritual dance to ward off evil spirits and awaken the coming spring.

As part of the festivities, villagers dress up in bizarre and frightening costumes as well.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on February 03, 2016, with the headline Bell-dancers ring in spring. Subscribe